Hello all,




Been a bit since I’ve posted, but my truck hasn’t broke in a while. Well, my 1998 Ranger with the 4.0 OHV three a rod through the block. I can’t justify tearing into all that is wrong with it. It’s got coolant in the oil now(head gasket), oil spitting out the intake (likely a bent intake valve on the broken cylinder), among whatever else got knocked around inside there.




So so my wife’s grandpa has a 1989 ranger with the 2.9l he offered to me for free if it will fit. From what I understand after reading on some posts, they have the same bell housing so it should bolt up. To be clear, I am looking to put the 1989 2.9l into my 1998.




Some specs from both trucks:

My truck: 1998 Ford Ranger 227,000 miles

-4.0 V6 OHV engine with 5R55E 5 speed auto transmission.




Truck with good engine: 1989 Ranger with unknown miles.

-2.9l V6 OHV with A4LD Transmission




Any thoughts? Besides the time involved, what else should I look out for? Will the computers be compatible with each other? As long as they bolt up to one another, will it shift and work fine?




My plan is to replace worn parts on the 2.9l while I have it out of the truck before I put it back in. Thanks in advance!

Here is a pic of the pieces I found when my truck threw a rod:D

 

You'll definitely have issues as far as wiring/computers. The '98 computer and GEM is set up to handle a 4.0 running EDIS, cam synchronizer, 5 speed auto, etc, so that's out. If you use the 2.9 computer, you'll need to use the A4LD. I don't know what other GEM and gauge related issues you'll create along the way. You'll save a huge amount of time (and potentially money) buying a scrap yard motor with a 90 day warranty that matches your current configuration, plus it'll be more powerful and let you use the later improved transmission.

 

Caleb,
Alright, I was wondering about that. Any thoughts on how much I should expect to pay for a junkyard engine? It sounds like it would be cheaper in the long run to get the used engine instead of chasing down all the potential issues associated with different computers. At least that is what I gather?

Thanks Again!

 

That's certainly the way I'd lean. As to cost - not sure locally. I've priced out replacement 5.0 Explorer engines through the junkyards that sell on eBay and found them anywhere from $450-1000 shipped with warranties.
https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_fro...Desc=0&_sop=15

 

Sounds good, thank you for pointing me in the right direction before I dived into the other option!